The Venice Biennale jury resigns amid tensions over awards ban, Russian participation
4 sources covered this · see comparison → ⚠ Left-only
The international jury of the Venice Biennale resigned nine days before the 2026 opening, citing tensions over its decision to bar awards for countries accused of crimes against humanity, including Russia and Israel. The resignation follows controversy over Russia's participation in the event despite opposition from the Italian government and recent EU funding cuts. The Biennale will now allow visitors to vote for award winners, replacing the traditional jury-selected Golden Lion prizes.
- ▪The Venice Biennale jury resigned amid disputes over banning awards for countries accused of crimes against humanity by the International Criminal Court.
- ▪Russia's participation has sparked controversy, with the Italian Culture Minister opposing it and EU funds being cut over the issue.
- ▪The Biennale maintains it cannot exclude countries from participating, noting that any nation recognized by Italy may request involvement.
- ▪Visitors will now select winners for Best Participant and Best National Participation, with awards to be given on the closing day, November 22.
- ▪Russian artists withdrew in 2022 and Russia did not present an exhibition in 2024, lending its pavilion to Bolivia instead.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
World The Venice Biennale jury resigns amid tensions over awards ban, Russian participation May 1, 20261:19 AM ET By The Associated Press FILE - A private security officer stands next to a closed Russia's pavilion at the 59th Biennale of Arts exhibition in Venice, Italy, Tuesday, April 19, 2022. Antonio Calanni/AP hide caption toggle caption Antonio Calanni/AP MILAN — The international jury of the Venice Biennale resigned Thursday, just nine days before the world's oldest and most important contemporary art fair opens, amid tensions over Russia's participation and the panel's decision to bar prizes for countries accused of crimes against humanity.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at NPR Topics: News.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from NPR Topics: News
